Apple has appointed Burberry CEO Angela Ahrendts as its new head of retail.

In an announcement last night, the Cupertino company ended its search for the role that was left open since John Browett left the company nearly a year ago.

Although Apple has described Ahrendts’ position as “newly created”, it appears to be very similar to that held by Ron Johnson up to November 2011, with the additional responsibility of Apple’s online stores.

Ahrendts will join the company in Spring 2014, following a seven-year stint as CEO of Burberry. She also previously worked for Liz Claiborne Inc. and Donna Karan International.

CEO Tim Cooked commented on the appointment, saying:

“She shares our values and our focus on innovation, and she places the same strong emphasis as we do on the customer experience. She has shown herself to be an extraordinary leader throughout her career and has a proven track record.”

Ahrendts also stated that she was “profoundly honored” to join Apple, adding: “I have always admired the innovation and impact Apple products and services have on people’s lives.”